Is Fortnite Banning Kids Under 13?
The question on every parent’s mind – is Fortnite banning kids under 13? The answer is no, not entirely. However, the platform is taking steps to ensure a safe and regulated gaming experience for young players.
Cabined Accounts: A New Safety Feature
In late 2022, Fortnite introduced a new feature called cabined accounts. This feature is designed for children under the age of 13, who cannot access certain features or content on the platform without parental consent. When setting up an account for a child under 13, parents will be asked to provide their email address, which will allow them to set limits and controls on the account.
What’s So Special About Cabined Accounts?
Cabined accounts come with several restrictions, including:
• Limited access to chat: Children under 13 cannot chat with other players or engage in group conversations.
• No purchasing: Young players cannot make in-game purchases without their parent’s consent.
• Restrictive content: Certain mature themes, violence, or explicit language may be filtered out or restricted.
How to Set Up a Cabined Account
To set up a cabined account for your child, follow these steps:
- Create a new Epic Games account: Go to the Epic Games website and create a new account.
- Enter your child’s date of birth: When prompted, enter your child’s date of birth.
- Add your email address: Provide your email address, which will serve as the guardian’s email address for the account.
- Verify your account: Follow the verification process to activate the account.
What if I’m Already a Parent? Can I Still Play Fortnite?
Yes, you can still play Fortnite with your child. As a parent or guardian, you can:
• Link your account to your child’s: Create a linked account with your child’s account to supervise and monitor their gaming experience.
• Set limits and controls: Set restrictions on your child’s account to limit their exposure to mature content or unsavory behavior.
Why Fortnite? Is it Really That Bad?
While Fortnite is a popular and beloved game, it’s not without controversy. The game has been criticized for:
• Violence and gore: The game features cartoonish violence and occasional bloodshed, which may not be suitable for all ages.
• Language and innuendo: Some players engage in explicit language or make offensive comments, which can be damaging to younger players.
• Addictive gameplay: Fortnite’s loot box system and constant updates can be addictive, leading to concerns about over-screening and negative impacts on children’s mental health.
Conclusion
Is Fortnite banning kids under 13? No, but it’s taking steps to ensure a safe and regulated gaming experience for young players. The cabined account feature is designed to limit access to mature content and prevent unintended exposure to unsavory behavior. As a parent, it’s crucial to take an active role in monitoring and setting limits for your child’s gaming experience to ensure a healthy and balanced relationship between technology and childhood.